CVE-2019-4411 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

IBM Cognos Controller versions 10.3.0, 10.3.1, 10.4.0, and 10.4.1 are vulnerable to an information disclosure issue that allows authenticated users to access sensitive information. This CVE was published on November 8, 2019.

Understanding CVE-2019-4411

This CVE pertains to a vulnerability in IBM Cognos Controller versions 10.3.0, 10.3.1, 10.4.0, and 10.4.1 that enables authenticated users to potentially obtain sensitive data due to easily predictable session identifier names.

What is CVE-2019-4411?

An authenticated user in affected versions of IBM Cognos Controller can access sensitive information through predictable session identifier names.
The vulnerability is identified with the IBM X-Force ID 162658.

The Impact of CVE-2019-4411

CVSS Base Score: 4.3 (Medium Severity)
Attack Vector: Network
Confidentiality Impact: Low
Integrity Impact: None
Privileges Required: Low
Exploit Code Maturity: Unproven
Remediation Level: Official Fix
Report Confidence: Confirmed

Technical Details of CVE-2019-4411

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows authenticated users to access sensitive information due to easily predictable session identifier names.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Cognos Controller
Vendor: IBM
Affected Versions: 10.3.0, 10.3.1, 10.4.0, 10.4.1

Exploitation Mechanism

The issue arises from session identifier names that can be easily guessed, enabling unauthorized access to sensitive data.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-4411 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply official fixes provided by IBM for the affected versions.
Monitor for any unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strong session management practices to prevent session identifier prediction.
Regularly update and patch IBM Cognos Controller to address security vulnerabilities.
Conduct security training for users to raise awareness about data protection.
Utilize network monitoring tools to detect and respond to suspicious activities.
Follow IBM's security best practices for secure usage of Cognos Controller.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all systems running IBM Cognos Controller are updated with the latest patches and security fixes.